Structures of first-year French courses in Canada are similar except for contact hours. Enrollment is generally increasing, despite staff funding problems. Textbook choices change slowly, and eclectic methodology predominates. Institutional enrollments, trends, class hours, and course types are charted, and a list of textbooks is included. (MSE)

Considers the increasing number of poorly prepared college students. Argues that conventional instruction, which stresses weaknesses, deteriorates students' self-image. Recommends focusing programs and teaching strategies on student individuality. Underscores the importance of rigorous preassessment and self-assessment of natural limitations.…

Explores questions regarding the knowledge and proficiency level expected of second-language learners, the acquisition of valued knowledge, the relationship between cognition and language learning, the nature of "progress," and quality curriculum design. These questions are discussed in reference to the development in Australia of the…

Describes a two-week Mexican immersion program for teachers including language instruction, homestays to enhance language and cultural development and a course focusing on the systematic exploration of how to integrate authentic materials into daily instruction. Results suggest that the program was successful in preparing teachers to meet the…

Reviews the responses of five leadership groups (presidents, chief financial officers, deans of liberal studies, chairs of social sciences and media services directors) from 29 community colleges in Michigan regarding the planning, curriculum design, and cost-effectiveness of distance education. Indicates that all groups have favorable views of…

Questions the removal of a link between reading and writing tasks in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examinations on two grounds: that this removal is prejudicial to those students whose native cultures may not provide the appropriate schemata to effectively write; and that it is unrealistic in terms of the measurement of…

Discusses the importance of teacher attitude and its interconnections with beliefs and teaching behavior. The article introduces a model to explain the gap between statements of intent and the reality of what happens in classrooms. Concludes that beliefs about innovation and its consequences are important in determining behavior and attitude…

Describes how the academic-writing component of the Centre for English Teacher Training in Hungary developed in response to the trainees' needs. The collaborative process of program design includes tutors not directly involved with language improvement, and the resulting program reflects principles shared by the whole staff and contributes to…

Pharmacy education at the University of Zimbabwe is somewhat like that in the United States; communication skill development and the pharmacist's role as drug expert are emphasized. Compounding is a major focus of study because bulk compounding is more economical for a developing country. The university's curriculum emphasizes rural practice, and…

An approach to designing a competency-based master's program in public administration that integrates political science, management, and value-based approaches into a holistic package is described. Pedagogically the approach seeks to balance conceptual knowledge with skill acquisition for specific situations, providing a curriculum more relevant…

An analysis of recent changes in Bulgarian secondary education looks at several major trends in: the structure of the formal education system; new curricula and conditions for implementation; financing and management of the system; and problems with school staffing. A period of transition characterized by some instability and occasional crises is…

Highlights the main points of Newfoundland's," A Curriculum Framework for Social Studies: Navigating the Future." Examines the document's development, theoretical foundations, content, and applications. The Framework stresses historical, geographical, economic, cultural, political-legal, global, and technological literacy. (MJP)

Compares and contrasts the social studies curricula in two Canadian provinces. Saskatchewan has adopted a student-centered approach emphasizing transformative knowledge and transactional strategies. Alberta is focusing more on knowledge acquisition and traditional assessment. Considers the reasons for these differences and proposes some directions…

Discusses adult education in Australian aboriginal communities, highlighting the contested place of English in curriculum and assessment and advocating a more complex understanding of these communities' dynamism. Raises questions of culture, identity, and colonialism while focusing on the teacher's role in critical literacy programs. (Eight…

Describes the foundation, development, and implementation of a multidisciplinary team-taught college-level health course for women. Specifically focused on women's health, the course aims to have a positive impact on student decision making and to interrupt potentially hazardous health patterns. Examines success and challenges through course…